Breaking the Cycle: Advocating for Early Childhood Support and Equity in Ohio

By Groundwork Ohio Early Childhood Fellow Brittney McCarey

The future of Ohio’s youngest citizens lies within the walls of their early childhood classrooms. Yet, the educators responsible for nurturing, guiding, and shaping their development are often underpaid and undervalued. This reality not only impacts the lives of these educators but directly influences the quality of education that young children receive. As we advocate for policies like Senate Bill 177, it is crucial to understand how fair compensation for early childhood educators can lead to better outcomes for children and families across our state.  

Understanding the Landscape    

Educators in Ohio face a multitude of challenges. Many lack the financial stability necessary for a sustainable career, leading to high turnover rates that disrupt the continuity of care and education for children. According to recent studies, schools with high educator turnover rates often struggle to provide quality early childhood education, a factor critical to a child's success in the later stages of life.  

The Urgency for Legislative Action  

Ohio's current rankings in critical areas of child welfare highlight the need for immediate government action. For instance:  

• Ohio ranks 44th in food insecurity, underscoring the need for advocacy to ensure all children access nutritious meals.  

• With a ranking of 42nd, improving access to Early Head Start for income-eligible infants and toddlers is paramount.  

• The state’s 30th ranking in infant maltreatment highlights the urgent need for stronger protections and support systems to prevent abuse and neglect.  

The lack of adequate support systems for families makes the role of early childhood educators even more critical. They not only educate but often serve as vital support for children and families in need.  

The Significance of Senate Bill 177  

Senate Bill 177 proposes a transformative shift in early childhood education through the Workforce Investment Now (WIN) for Child Care pilot program. This legislation aims to provide publicly funded child care for educators working at least 20 hours per week, fostering a more stable workforce. By addressing compensation, this bill encourages retention and, in turn, ensures that children receive the consistent, high-quality education they deserve.  

Advocating for Change  

The path to enhancing educator compensation requires collective effort:  

1. Engage Our Communities: Form coalitions with parents, community organizations, and educators to advocate for increased funding for early childhood education.  

2. Utilize Data: Present data showcasing the long-term benefits of investing in early childhood education, such as improved academic performance and reduced societal costs.  

3. Lobby for Support: Work directly with lawmakers to communicate the critical need for legislative support of Senate Bill 177.  

4. Raise Awareness: Launch campaigns to educate the public on the importance of early childhood educators and their role in shaping future generations.  

5. Pursue Funding Opportunities: Actively seek federal and state grants that can provide the necessary financial support for early childhood programs.  

A Call to Action  

The case for increasing pay and retaining early childhood educators resonates well beyond their classrooms. It is a call to action for lawmakers and community members alike to invest in the future of Ohio's children. By supporting initiatives like Senate Bill 177, we not only uplift the teaching profession but also lay a strong foundation for the well-being of families and children in our state. Together, let’s advocate for policies that ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.